mishandling

Verb

mishandle (third-person singular simple present mishandles, present participle mishandling, simple past and past participle mishandled)

1. (transitive) To manipulate something roughly, causing physical damage.
   • If you mishandle a fragile package, the contents may break.

   Synonyms:

   misuse, abuse, handle roughly, handle incorrectly, maul

2. (transitive) To deal with a situation incorrectly or ineffectively; to make a mistake in handling a situation.
   • The prime minister was accused of mishandling the diplomatic crisis.

   Synonyms:

   mismanage

See all 5 meanings of mishandle